Balcony Collapses Near Banke Bihari Temple Under Weight Of Monkeys; Several Devotees Injured

Mathura: A private building's balcony collapsed in a narrow lane next to the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura. Several devotees were injured. Eyewitnesses say a large group of monkeys was sitting on the balcony and fighting each other. The structure lost balance and crashed straight down on people standing below. Chaos broke out in the lane. Locals rushed the injured to hospital.

What the eyewitness account?

A shopkeeper was at the spot. He said the lane was crowded at the time. Some women were standing near his shop. Monkeys were fighting on the balcony above. Suddenly it broke and fell. Large stone pieces landed directly on the women's heads. They were seriously injured.

Seconds away from a bigger tragedy?

The women were buying water bottles from Agarwal's shop and talking to him. They had just stepped slightly to the side when the balcony came down. Their belongings scattered on the ground. Blood spread around the spot. People nearby panicked.

What happened after?

People on the spot immediately picked up the injured and rushed them to hospital. Local administration reached the site after getting the information. The incident has raised questions about safety in the temple area and the condition of old buildings around it.

A warning that was ignored?

According to the eyewitnesses, if the balcony had been repaired in time, this accident could have been avoided. He also pointed out that many such old and crumbling balconies still exist in the area. They are an accident waiting to happen.